The Huffington Post and TED are counting down "18 of 2011's most impactful talks" and combining them with new blog posts written by the people who delivered them. I was so honored and overwhelmed when I found out that my TEDxHouston talk was chosen for the countdown.

In my essay I describe 2010 as the year of the talk and 2011 as the year of "walking the talk." Having a video on vulnerability go viral made this year the most vulnerable year of my life. Ironic, I know.

 

From the essay:

"This past year has been an experience that I can only describe as equal parts terrifying and exciting. There's been unbelievable support, long overdue debate and discourse about these silenced topics, and -- the thing that makes me the most excited -- the development of new communities committed to cultivating more conversations about the emotional landscape of our lives. For better and for worse, there have also been some tough lessons on finding balance, asking for help, and seeking out constructive, respectful debate and feedback without letting in too much of the downright mean-spiritedness that’s rampant in our culture."

I want all of you to know that our community has been a constant source of support for me. I'm so grateful for what we've created.

---

Dr. Brené Brown is a researcher, writer, and a unique speaker whose reputation is built on her ability to explore vulnerable topics with tremendous honesty, warmth, and humor. She is a leading expert on Authenticity, Vulnerability and Courage; and the author of The Gifts of Imperfection: Letting Go of Who We Think We Should Be and Embracing Who We Are.